Optimisery: The Case For and Against Derek Carr in New Orleans

In this series, Jeremy Schwob and John Di Bari present the optimistic and pessimistic sides to significant changes in the dynasty landscape. Consider both sides, as the goal is to find somewhere in between.

The old adage that there are two sides to every coin could never be more true than when circumstances change for a player. That is especially true when surprising information is thrust upon us. Psychological difficulty and distress can be encountered when individuals hold rigid views that are strictly one-sided (i.e., split) or alternate drastically from one to the other.

A therapeutic concept called integration is a healthier structure for holding both sides together and tolerating the benefits and flaws simultaneously. Relationally, this could involve being frustrated or angry with them while at the same time being able to maintain that you care about them. Such emotional difficulties can parallel our view of players on dynasty rosters amidst changing circumstances.

The goal of this series is not to have you pick a side or a winner of the argument. Rather, it is to consider both sides and not select one entirely in the absence of the other.

Over the past few years, we've seen the Las Vegas Raiders bring back Jon Gruden, relocate to Las Vegas, fire Jon Gruden, bring in Davante Adams, and now, most recently, part ways with long-time quarterback Derek Carr.

Carr then signed with the New Orleans Saints, who themselves have been trying to find a reliable starting quarterback since Drew Brees retired following the 2020 season. The Saints have also seen their fair share of change, as long-time head coach Sean Payton temporarily retired following the 2021 season.

Will Carr be the missing puzzle piece who puts the Saints back into first place in the NFC South, or will the Saints be looking for a new quarterback (and coach) again in the next few years?

OPTIMISM